Episode 53: Video Games and Youth Ministry (Patrick Miller)

Video games are big business, but most Christian leaders either don’t take them seriously or only criticize them as a waste of time. How can youth workers begin to think theologically about the allure and world building of video games, while also thinking critically about addiction in order to engage gamers more effectively? 

Discussion Includes:

• What put video games on your radar to start tweeting about video games? What’s the general reaction been to some of the threads you’ve posted over the last few months? 
• What are some changes you’ve observed in video games from the time when you were a teenager to today? 
• As a pastor and theologian, could you offer some biblical and theological reflection about what video games offer that’s so appealing to teenagers and young adults? 
• How do you pastor and counsel men or women who are addicted or who are too enamored with the virtual world? 
• What recommendations do you have for parents regarding video games? How can they establish healthy boundaries without simply taking a hard black or white stance?

Patrick Miller is a pastor at The Crossing. He hosts the podcast Truth over Tribe and is the coauthor of a book by the same name. He is married to Emily and they have two kids.

Recommended Resources

• Patrick’s article: The Case for Taking Video Games Seriously
• Patrick’s podcast: Truth Over Tribe
• Patrick’s book: Truth Over Tribe
• Love Thy Nerd
• Gamers to Follow: TV Preacher Guy, Jon Rush

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